Role Summary

The Data Technician is responsible for supporting the collection, entry, verification, validation, analysis, and reporting of health and programmatic data across PIH/APZU-supported facilities and community programs. The incumbent plays a critical role in ensuring data accuracy, completeness, timeliness, and consistency across multiple information systems, including electronic medical records (EMR), DHIS2, CommCare, and other digital and paper-based reporting platforms.

The Data Technician works closely with Ministry of Health staff, Monitoring and Evaluation Officers, Research Officers, Clinical Program teams, Health Management Information System (HMIS) personnel, and community-based teams to strengthen data quality and support evidence-based decision-making. The role contributes to the successful implementation of data management processes, routine reporting requirements, patient outcome monitoring, and field-based data verification activities in alignment with PIH/APZU strategic priorities and national health information standards.

The incumbent is expected to identify and resolve data quality issues, support digital health initiatives, provide mentorship to facility staff, and contribute to the development of reliable information systems that improve patient care, program performance, and organizational learning.

3.0 Core Responsibilities

3.1 Data Collection and Management

Support the collection of routine and programmatic data using approved electronic and paper-based data collection tools.

Conduct timely and accurate data entry into designated digital information systems and databases.

Support transcription, translation, coding, and summarization of health and operational data as required.

Ensure completeness, consistency, and accuracy of collected data prior to submission and reporting.

Maintain confidentiality and security of patient, programmatic, and organizational data in accordance with established policies and procedures.

Support the organization, storage, and archiving of source documents and data records.

3.2 Data Quality Assurance and Verification

Conduct routine data cleaning, verification, validation, and quality assessments across electronic and paper-based reporting systems.

Perform high-frequency comparisons between paper registers, electronic medical records, DHIS2, and other reporting platforms to identify discrepancies and missing information.

Investigate and resolve data inconsistencies, duplicate records, and reporting errors in collaboration with relevant teams.

Report recurring data quality challenges and recommend corrective actions to supervisors, Monitoring and Evaluation Officers, and Research Officers.

Support implementation of data quality improvement initiatives and standard operating procedures across supported facilities.

Participate in routine data audits, assessments, and quality assurance exercises.

3.3 Reporting and Information Systems Support

Support the compilation, analysis, and submission of routine and ad-hoc reports from multiple health information systems.

Assist in generating reports and dashboards to support program monitoring, performance management, and decision-making.

Support alignment of HIV, TB, NCD, RMNCAH, and other program data across EMR systems, DHIS2, operational databases, and paper-based reporting tools.

Monitor data flows and reporting timelines to ensure compliance with organizational and national reporting requirements.

Support routine extraction and management of data from approved systems and databases.

Contribute to the maintenance and functionality of digital health systems used within PIH/APZU programs.

3.4 Patient Tracking and Program Support

Monitor patient data outcomes and support active patient tracing, follow-up, and retention activities in collaboration with Clinical Programme teams.

Assist with data tracking activities related to continuity of care, treatment outcomes, and service utilization.

Support integrated screening initiatives, including SHARC/SHARS, SHARF, and other community and facility-based programs.

Collaborate with clinicians, nurses, community health workers, HSAs, and IC3 teams to strengthen integrated data workflows and reporting processes.

Support field-based implementation and monitoring activities through data collection and system configuration, including CommCare setup and management.

3.5 Capacity Building and Stakeholder Engagement

Provide on-the-job mentorship and technical support to HMIS Clerks and facility staff on data collection, reporting, and information management processes.

Support orientation and refresher training activities on data tools, systems, and reporting requirements.

Work closely with Ministry of Health teams to strengthen data quality, reporting accuracy, and data use at facility and district levels.

Participate in collaborative meetings, data review sessions, and performance improvement initiatives.

Foster positive working relationships with internal teams, government stakeholders, and implementing partners.

3.6 Field Support and Operational Responsibilities

Travel regularly to supported health facilities to verify reports, review source documents, and support data quality improvement activities.

Participate in facility data review visits and HMIS support activities.

Support operational data collection exercises, surveys, assessments, and research-related activities as assigned.

Assist in the implementation and monitoring of digital health and mobile health initiatives.

Perform any other duties assigned by the Supervisor from time to time.

4.0 Expected Competencies, Attributes, and Behaviors

4.1 Core Competencies

Data Management and Analysis: Demonstrated ability to collect, manage, validate, analyze, and interpret data from multiple sources and information systems.

Digital Health Systems Expertise: Strong understanding of health information systems including EMR platforms, DHIS2, OpenMRS, CommCare, SurveyCTO, ODK, and related technologies.

Data Quality Assurance: Ability to identify, investigate, and resolve data quality issues while maintaining high standards of accuracy and completeness.

Information Systems and Database Skills: Working knowledge of data management software, databases, and query tools such as SQL, MySQL, PostgreSQL, or related platforms.

Reporting and Documentation: Ability to compile accurate reports, maintain data documentation, and communicate findings effectively.

4.2 Behavioral Attributes

Attention to Detail: Demonstrates exceptional accuracy and thoroughness when handling data and reviewing records.

Integrity and Confidentiality: Maintains the highest standards of professionalism, confidentiality, and ethical handling of sensitive information.

Teamwork and Collaboration: Works effectively with multidisciplinary teams across clinical, programmatic, and administrative departments.

Initiative and Accountability: Takes responsibility for assigned tasks and proactively identifies opportunities for improvement.

Adaptability and Resilience: Performs effectively in dynamic, resource-constrained, and field-based environments.

Service-Oriented Mindset: Demonstrates commitment to supporting high-quality healthcare delivery through accurate and timely information management.

4.3 Technical Competencies

Analytical Problem-Solving: Ability to investigate data discrepancies, identify root causes, and implement practical solutions.

Microsoft Office Proficiency: Advanced skills in Microsoft Excel and good working knowledge of Word and PowerPoint.

Data Verification and Validation: Demonstrated ability to perform routine data quality checks and monitor reporting compliance.

Communication Skills: Ability to communicate technical information clearly to both technical and non-technical audiences.

Training and Mentorship: Ability to provide supportive supervision, coaching, and mentorship to facility staff and data users.

5.0 Qualifications and Experience

Bachelor’s Degree in Computing, Mathematics, Statistics, Information Systems, Informatics, or a related field.

Minimum of two (2) years of experience working with data management systems, databases, or health information systems.

Demonstrated experience using database query languages such as SQL, MySQL, PostgreSQL, or related platforms.

Experience working with Ministry of Health digital health and reporting systems will be an added advantage.

Strong computer literacy and proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.

Demonstrated understanding of health informatics, digital health, mobile health technologies, or health information systems is an added advantage.

Experience using OpenMRS, DHIS2, CommCare, SurveyCTO, ODK, or other electronic data collection platforms is desirable.

Proven ability to maintain high standards of data quality, accuracy, completeness, and timeliness.

Experience working in health programs, monitoring and evaluation, research, or healthcare settings will be an added advantage.

6.0 Additional Notes

Willingness and ability to travel regularly to health facilities and communities within supported districts.

The position may require flexibility to support field activities, data collection exercises, reporting deadlines, and special assignments.

Commitment to maintaining the confidentiality, integrity, and security of patient and organizational data.

Strong interest in digital health, health information systems strengthening, and data-driven decision-making.

Opportunity to contribute to improving healthcare quality and patient outcomes through the provision of reliable, timely, and high-quality health information.

7.0 Method of application 

All interested and qualified candidates based in Malawi should apply strictly through https://www.pih.org/employment on or before 13th September 2026. Only shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews.

8.0 Safeguarding Commitment

 Partners In Health/Abwenzi Pa Za Umoyo (PIH/APZU) is committed to safeguarding staff, children and communities with whom we work from sexual exploitation, abuse and sexual harassment. Therefore, any offer of employment is conditional upon the successful completion of applicable background checks.

The Organisation does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process. If you are asked to make a payment at any stage of the recruitment process, please contact bmsowoya@pih.org and speakup@pih.org.